Frozen Pipes: Causes and Solutions
Icy winter weather isn’t just bad for your driveways and roofs – it can also cause some serious damage to your home’s plumbing. Frozen pipes can be a major headache for homeowners, but they’re not an impossible problem to solve. In this article, we’ll explain what causes pipes to freeze and how you can prevent and fix this issue.
What are Frozen Pipes?
Pipes freeze when the temperature drops below 32°F, causing the water inside them to expand and eventually obstruct the flow. The part of the pipe closest to the outdoor temperature is usually the first one to freeze and create an obstruction. This freezing can cause serious damage to your home’s plumbing, leading to leaks or even bursting pipes – neither of which are pleasant to deal with.
How to Know if Your Pipes are Frozen
The most common signs of frozen pipes are reduced water flow, strange noises coming from your plumbing, or a complete lack of water when you turn on a faucet. If you suspect that you have frozen pipes, don’t wait to get help – it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent any lasting damage to your plumbing.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
The best way to deal with frozen pipes is to prevent them from freezing in the first place. Here are some steps you can take to protect your home’s plumbing during the winter months:
1. Keep your home’s temperature at a consistent level – ideally at least 55°F – even when you’re not home. This will help keep your pipes from freezing when it’s extra cold outside.
2. Add insulation to exposed pipes. This will help keep the water in them from freezing even when the temperature drops significantly.
3. Seal any cracks or leaks in your home’s foundation, windows, or walls. Cold air coming in will only make it harder to keep your pipes from freezing.
What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze
If you think your pipes are already frozen, it’s important to avoid heating them up quickly – this can cause the pipes to burst. Here are some steps you can take instead:
1. Turn off your home’s main water supply.
2. Open all faucets on the frozen pipe to relieve the pressure in your plumbing system.
3. Use a hairdryer or space heater to warm the frozen pipe slowly. Never use an open flame or torch to thaw frozen pipes.
How Blue Sky Plumbing Can Help
If you’re having trouble with frozen pipes or you’d like to take additional steps to protect your home’s plumbing, Blue Sky Plumbing is here to help. We offer expert plumbing services and can help you take the steps you need to keep your pipes from freezing this winter. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment!
Conclusion
Frozen pipes might seem like a daunting problem, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can keep your plumbing running smoothly all winter long. Remember to protect your pipes with insulation, keep your home at a consistent temperature, and call for professional help if you’re having trouble with frozen pipes. Stay warm and keep those pipes flowing!
